Have you ever struggled to find the perfect picture frame for your cherished photos or artwork? Perhaps you have a vision for a unique size or style that’s proving impossible to find in stores. Don’t worry; you’re not alone!

At Robert Kline Art, we believe in the power of handcrafted pieces. That’s why we’re excited to guide you through the process of creating your own custom DIY picture frames. It’s easier than you think and far more rewarding! This guide will provide a step-by-step approach, complete with expert tips and tricks, to help you create personalized frames that perfectly complement your style and needs.

Why Make Your Own Picture Frames?

Before we dive into the process, let’s explore the compelling reasons why making your own DIY picture frames is a fantastic idea:

Uniqueness: Unleash your creativity and design frames in any size, shape, color, or style you desire. You’re not limited by standard store offerings.
Cost-Effectiveness: Custom framing can be expensive. DIY allows you to create beautiful frames while potentially saving money, especially for large or unusual sizes.
Personalization: Add a special touch to your home décor with frames that reflect your personality and enhance the artwork they display.
Sense of Accomplishment: There’s immense satisfaction in crafting something beautiful and functional with your own two hands.

Tools and Materials

Here’s a list of what you’ll need to embark on your frame-making adventure:

Tools:

Miter Saw (for precise 45-degree cuts)
Utility Knife (for cutting mat board and plexiglass)
Straight Edge (for accurate marking and cutting)
Screwdriver
Hammer
Saw to Cut Plexiglass (if you need a specific size)

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Materials:

Pictures to Frame
Plexiglass (see notes below)
Mat Board
1×2 Boards (amount depends on frame size)
¾” or 1” Square Dowels (optional, for inside frame)
Cardboard
Wood Glue
Picture Frame Tabs
Sawtooth Hanger

Notes on Plexiglass:

Pre-Cut Options: Plexiglass is available in a variety of pre-cut sizes. You can choose one that matches your desired frame size or slightly larger if you need to trim it down.
Custom Cutting: If you prefer a specific size, you can have plexiglass custom cut at most home improvement stores or use a circular saw with a fine-tooth blade for a clean cut at home.
Thickness: A thickness of ⅛” is ideal for picture frames.

Building Your DIY Picture Frame: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and bring those frames to life!

Step 1: Determine the Inside Frame Size

Inside vs. Outside Frame: The “inside frame” refers to the inner frame that holds the picture, plexiglass, and mat board. The “outside frame” provides a decorative border around the inside frame.
Measurements: The inside frame should be slightly larger (about ⅛”) than your plexiglass on all sides. This allows for easy placement and a bit of wiggle room.
Example Calculation: Let’s say your picture is 16”x20”, and you want a 2” mat border around it.
- Plexiglass Size: 20” (picture width) + 4” (mat border) = 24” wide; 16” (picture height) + 4” (mat border) = 20” high.
- Inside Frame Size: 24 ⅛” wide x 20 ⅛” high.

Step 2: Build the Inside Frame

Cut the Pieces: Using your miter saw, cut four pieces of your chosen material (1x2s or square dowels) to the dimensions calculated in Step 1, ensuring 45-degree angles at the ends for a seamless frame.
Assemble the Frame: Apply wood glue to the mitered ends and join the four pieces to form a rectangular frame. You can use clamps to hold the pieces together while the glue dries.

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Step 3: Create the Outside Frame

Cut and Attach: Miter-cut 1×2 boards to create the outer frame, ensuring they fit snugly around the inside frame. Glue and clamp these pieces in place.

Pro Tip: To create a “lip” for holding the plexiglass and other components, use a spacer (like a piece of ¼” plywood) to offset the inside frame slightly from the back edge of the outside frame while gluing.

Step 4: Cut and Install Plexiglass (If Needed)

Measure and Cut: If your plexiglass sheet needs trimming, measure carefully and cut it to the desired size using your chosen method (circular saw, utility knife, etc.).
Remove Protective Film: Peel off any protective film from the plexiglass before placing it into the frame.

Safety Tip: When cutting plexiglass, wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris.

Step 5: Prepare and Install Mat Board

Measure and Cut Mat Board: Cut your mat board to the same size as the plexiglass.
Mark and Cut the Opening: On the back of the mat board, carefully mark the opening for your picture, making it slightly smaller (about ½” on each side) than the actual picture size. Use a straight edge and a very sharp utility knife to cut the opening.
Position and Secure: Place the mat board into the frame, followed by the picture, centering it as desired.

Pro Tip: Use painter’s tape to temporarily hold the picture in place within the mat opening while you assemble the rest of the frame.

Step 6: Add Backing and Hanging Hardware

Cut and Secure Backing: Cut a piece of cardboard to the same size as the plexiglass and mat board. This will provide a sturdy backing for your frame.
Attach Backing: Use turn buttons or other fasteners to secure the backing to the frame. This makes it easy to change out pictures in the future.
Install Hanging Hardware: Attach a sawtooth hanger (or other hanging hardware of your choice) to the back of the frame, centered along the top edge.

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Finishing Touches and Displaying Your Masterpiece

Sand and Finish: Lightly sand any rough edges on your frame and apply your desired finish (stain, paint, or a natural wood sealant).
Hang with Pride: Once your frame is complete, choose the perfect spot to display your artwork or cherished photo.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve successfully created your very own custom DIY picture frame. Now you can adorn your living spaces with personalized frames that perfectly complement your style and showcase your creativity. At Robert Kline Art, we believe that handmade objects hold a special kind of beauty and meaning. We encourage you to explore the endless possibilities of DIY picture framing and share your creations with us!

Don’t forget to browse our website for more inspiring craft ideas and unique handmade gifts for your loved ones.